Ah, Oklahoma Nut Candy—a classic Southern treat known for its rich, nutty, caramel flavor. It’s usually made with pecans (native to the region) and has a chewy, buttery texture. Here’s a straightforward recipe:
🌰 Oklahoma Nut Candy
Ingredients (makes ~24 pieces):
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecans (or a mix of pecans and walnuts)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Prepare pan:
- Grease a 9×13-inch pan lightly or line with parchment paper.
- Cook the syrup:
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Add butter and nuts:
- Stir in butter and pecans.
- Continue cooking until mixture reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer (soft-ball stage).
- Add flavor:
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and a pinch of salt.
- Pour and cool:
- Pour mixture into the prepared pan.
- Let it cool completely at room temperature.
- Cut and serve:
- Once firm, cut into squares or break into pieces.
💡 Tips:
- For a chewier candy, cook slightly less than soft-ball stage.
- Toasting the nuts beforehand enhances flavor.
- Store in an airtight container to keep candy fresh.
If you want, I can also give you a microwave version that’s quicker but still gives that classic Oklahoma nut candy texture.
Do you want me to share the microwave method?